Ford & Yahoo! Aiming to obsolete F-150 Online?
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2000
Posts: 1,544
Likes: 0
From: Kalamazoo, MI, USA
Dear Steve:
I'm sorry to hear that the first round doesn't look like a knock-out for you. It is, however, the first round.
I've been reading posts here since early 1997 -- when the biggest cry from owners seemed to be that of surprize/complaint about fuel mileage. Ford didn't listen, based upon the mileage of my new 2K compared to the '97. I use this only to make a point.
If the purpose of the board was to get Ford's attention - perhaps it did -- by ultimately telling Ford that, surprise aside, gas mileage didn't matter.
If the purpose of the site was to obtain sponsorship (advertizing money), then judging from the cute ads at the top of this page, you were successful.
If the purpose was to allow a place for entheusists to chat -- you were totally successful.
I, for one, came to find answers to technical questions, and to convince myself that I made the right decision -- albeit one largely unresearched and heart-driven.
After many hours of reading these posts, I still yearn for technical expertise -- that is largely overshadowed by the posts of people who have way too much time on their hands -- good people -- entheusists -- owners -- with very much good intention, but with little actual technical information.
Of the thousands of words of text posted here, much of it is of the "...yeah me too..." or "...My friend's uncle's kid heard from somebody that..." non-technical and really non-value-added chat typical of entheusist or chat groups in general.
Sure, I've picked up some tips, like the fact that there was a 'free' exhaust relocation program, advanced notice of the wheel-lugnuts falling off, a fairly informative listing of the piston slap problem, etc. -- and perhaps the biggest value-add is the confirmation/refuting by others that a problem is/is not widespread.
Herein is the greatest opportunity for your web -- and for which it is woefully missing the target:
You have a unique opportunity to QUANTIFY and scientifically document the occurrence of problems with the F-150 -- but for some reason do not. Specifically, I mean that you have a darn good list of actual Owners of the vehicles -- and that those owners are pretty technically-savvy (computer geeks, too) -- and you have a mailing list of them -- but you miss the boat by not capitalizing by the wealth that you posess.
Where are the surveys (I don't mean what goodies do you have on your truck)? Where's the factual built-on, shipped on, fuel mileage, tire mileage, tire cupping/balance, window rattle, etc (I'm making these up as I type)? Get a copy of the survey that Consumer Reports sends out. What do you think they do with the answers? Would you have an opportunity to do it better? I think yes -- because your audience comes back (or at least you can find them again).
There is no technical library here. Why? If someone is afraid of copyright problems -- perhaps they don't know that only the FORMAT of the information is protected under copyright -- not the underlying information. This means that a paraphrased rewording of the information is free from problem. You just can't copy&paste from the original.
Perhaps folks like JCWhitney would be interested in targeting people with trucks with green-left-handed-thingamajigs -- that can be represented by some 4,400 owners who've registered here.
Limit people to xxx or yyy posts per hour/day/week, etc. Look at the posts of the high-running posters. They're mostly "Yeah, and your mother wears army boots" in value.
Identify the movers and shakers. Some of the people are experts in their field -- Identify them, or at least let themself identify themself to you privately -- so that questions which fall under the realm of their expertise get their attention -- to which they may volunteer to "opine" anonymously -- so that the lawyers cannot come after them for malpractice -- but for which we can read their opinions.
Limit the footers to one or two lines. I couldn't give a damn about someone's plan to add an exhaust system or chip.
Lastly, give 'Andthensometo' her own billing, as her posts/jokes are probably the second-most reason that I keep looking (each day) at this site.
I sure don't want any flames from some of the folks with too much time on their hands, but I do want to express that I have enjoyed this site -- strengths and weakness -- and hope that you do continue to be rewarded by your effort.
You'll notice that I use two pen names -- and that I've used this one because it does not identify my name (to the flamers).
Keep up the good work.
I'm sorry to hear that the first round doesn't look like a knock-out for you. It is, however, the first round.
I've been reading posts here since early 1997 -- when the biggest cry from owners seemed to be that of surprize/complaint about fuel mileage. Ford didn't listen, based upon the mileage of my new 2K compared to the '97. I use this only to make a point.
If the purpose of the board was to get Ford's attention - perhaps it did -- by ultimately telling Ford that, surprise aside, gas mileage didn't matter.
If the purpose of the site was to obtain sponsorship (advertizing money), then judging from the cute ads at the top of this page, you were successful.
If the purpose was to allow a place for entheusists to chat -- you were totally successful.
I, for one, came to find answers to technical questions, and to convince myself that I made the right decision -- albeit one largely unresearched and heart-driven.
After many hours of reading these posts, I still yearn for technical expertise -- that is largely overshadowed by the posts of people who have way too much time on their hands -- good people -- entheusists -- owners -- with very much good intention, but with little actual technical information.
Of the thousands of words of text posted here, much of it is of the "...yeah me too..." or "...My friend's uncle's kid heard from somebody that..." non-technical and really non-value-added chat typical of entheusist or chat groups in general.
Sure, I've picked up some tips, like the fact that there was a 'free' exhaust relocation program, advanced notice of the wheel-lugnuts falling off, a fairly informative listing of the piston slap problem, etc. -- and perhaps the biggest value-add is the confirmation/refuting by others that a problem is/is not widespread.
Herein is the greatest opportunity for your web -- and for which it is woefully missing the target:
You have a unique opportunity to QUANTIFY and scientifically document the occurrence of problems with the F-150 -- but for some reason do not. Specifically, I mean that you have a darn good list of actual Owners of the vehicles -- and that those owners are pretty technically-savvy (computer geeks, too) -- and you have a mailing list of them -- but you miss the boat by not capitalizing by the wealth that you posess.
Where are the surveys (I don't mean what goodies do you have on your truck)? Where's the factual built-on, shipped on, fuel mileage, tire mileage, tire cupping/balance, window rattle, etc (I'm making these up as I type)? Get a copy of the survey that Consumer Reports sends out. What do you think they do with the answers? Would you have an opportunity to do it better? I think yes -- because your audience comes back (or at least you can find them again).
There is no technical library here. Why? If someone is afraid of copyright problems -- perhaps they don't know that only the FORMAT of the information is protected under copyright -- not the underlying information. This means that a paraphrased rewording of the information is free from problem. You just can't copy&paste from the original.
Perhaps folks like JCWhitney would be interested in targeting people with trucks with green-left-handed-thingamajigs -- that can be represented by some 4,400 owners who've registered here.
Limit people to xxx or yyy posts per hour/day/week, etc. Look at the posts of the high-running posters. They're mostly "Yeah, and your mother wears army boots" in value.
Identify the movers and shakers. Some of the people are experts in their field -- Identify them, or at least let themself identify themself to you privately -- so that questions which fall under the realm of their expertise get their attention -- to which they may volunteer to "opine" anonymously -- so that the lawyers cannot come after them for malpractice -- but for which we can read their opinions.
Limit the footers to one or two lines. I couldn't give a damn about someone's plan to add an exhaust system or chip.
Lastly, give 'Andthensometo' her own billing, as her posts/jokes are probably the second-most reason that I keep looking (each day) at this site.
I sure don't want any flames from some of the folks with too much time on their hands, but I do want to express that I have enjoyed this site -- strengths and weakness -- and hope that you do continue to be rewarded by your effort.
You'll notice that I use two pen names -- and that I've used this one because it does not identify my name (to the flamers).
Keep up the good work.
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 1999
Posts: 692
Likes: 0
From: Michigan Rocks and then some too!!!
Lastly, give 'Andthensometo' her own billing, as her posts/jokes are probably the second-most reason that I keep looking (each day) at this site.
Gee that was how long ago and we are all still here!
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2000
Posts: 1,544
Likes: 0
From: Kalamazoo, MI, USA
------------------
Y2K™ Jim
Toreador Red, Keyless XLT SC SB 5.4L E4x4 4wDisc/ABS, 3.73LS, Skid, HD 7700# Towing, LT-245's on Chrome, Tube-Steps, Captain's, 6CD, Tonneau, named: "Nick"
Member
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 10
Likes: 0
From: Wheaton, Md. USA
Hi Steve,
I'm a 'branny-new' member to F-150 online and have already gleaned much useful information from your site and it's many members. I'm grateful for the work you've done and the commitment you've made and that should be worth something to you even if it doesn't put any money in your pocket.
You stated that your 'personal goal' when you started this site was to learn HTML, web marketing and design, pad your resume, attract visitors etc... (and you have indeed accomplished that!) but I guess I'm a little dismayed that your list of objectives didn't include your passion and enthusiasm for Ford F-150 trucks and thier owners, and the forum for free and open exchange of information amongst members that your site provides, which, in my opinion, is what this site is really all about.
I believe that corporate sponsorship of a forum such as yours is inappropriate... the site should be driven by the passion and enthusiasm of it's owners and members. Advertising revenue? Membership dues? Perhaps, but only to the extent necessary to offset expenses. (and your time should be considered an expense) I also believe that expecting corporate sponsorship of any forum of this nature is unrealistic... no corporation is going to back a site that brings to light any shortcomings in it's product line.
The bottom line is this; You have accomplished your goals as you set them out to be, and any web programer or content editor would be proud to carry F-150 online on his or her resume. This site, in one form or another, will live on, regardless of your decision. (in other words, if you don't do it somebody else will)
Rather than being upset that Ford has 'dissed' you/us, let the site continue as a thorn in thier side... Ford does not have the power to surpress our freedom of speech. So you change the name? Big deal. (And)Let them glean all the information they want from your site, it still helps to improve their product and the experience of owners of Ford products as well, right? Kind of like 'little brother' watching over them, a 'consumer watchdog' if you will.
A couple of final suggestions; Have you considered bringing some media attention to this situation? Contact your local television, radio, and newspaper... they just might be interested in a story like this. Lastly, before you make the decision to close the site down permanently, consider simply and quietly 'passing the torch' to someone else who shares your love of the Ford F-150 truck. You can then move on to bigger and better things, taking with you the experience you have gained and the knowledge that you have made a difference in the lives of your many members. In my book, that's better than money in the bank anyday.
Sincerely and with best wishes,
------------------
'97 F-150 4X4, 4.6, automatic, 3 door extended cab, short bed, Teal on Black
I'm a 'branny-new' member to F-150 online and have already gleaned much useful information from your site and it's many members. I'm grateful for the work you've done and the commitment you've made and that should be worth something to you even if it doesn't put any money in your pocket.
You stated that your 'personal goal' when you started this site was to learn HTML, web marketing and design, pad your resume, attract visitors etc... (and you have indeed accomplished that!) but I guess I'm a little dismayed that your list of objectives didn't include your passion and enthusiasm for Ford F-150 trucks and thier owners, and the forum for free and open exchange of information amongst members that your site provides, which, in my opinion, is what this site is really all about.
I believe that corporate sponsorship of a forum such as yours is inappropriate... the site should be driven by the passion and enthusiasm of it's owners and members. Advertising revenue? Membership dues? Perhaps, but only to the extent necessary to offset expenses. (and your time should be considered an expense) I also believe that expecting corporate sponsorship of any forum of this nature is unrealistic... no corporation is going to back a site that brings to light any shortcomings in it's product line.
The bottom line is this; You have accomplished your goals as you set them out to be, and any web programer or content editor would be proud to carry F-150 online on his or her resume. This site, in one form or another, will live on, regardless of your decision. (in other words, if you don't do it somebody else will)
Rather than being upset that Ford has 'dissed' you/us, let the site continue as a thorn in thier side... Ford does not have the power to surpress our freedom of speech. So you change the name? Big deal. (And)Let them glean all the information they want from your site, it still helps to improve their product and the experience of owners of Ford products as well, right? Kind of like 'little brother' watching over them, a 'consumer watchdog' if you will.
A couple of final suggestions; Have you considered bringing some media attention to this situation? Contact your local television, radio, and newspaper... they just might be interested in a story like this. Lastly, before you make the decision to close the site down permanently, consider simply and quietly 'passing the torch' to someone else who shares your love of the Ford F-150 truck. You can then move on to bigger and better things, taking with you the experience you have gained and the knowledge that you have made a difference in the lives of your many members. In my book, that's better than money in the bank anyday.
Sincerely and with best wishes,
------------------
'97 F-150 4X4, 4.6, automatic, 3 door extended cab, short bed, Teal on Black
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 1999
Posts: 558
Likes: 0
From: The Netherlands
All I want to say is this:
I was planning to buy a Chevrolet CK 1500 (Dec 1998/Jan 1999)
Thanks to F150 online, I decided to buy a Ford F-150 Truck.
What is the latest on this ?
Posting was a long time ago, what happened since then?
I was planning to buy a Chevrolet CK 1500 (Dec 1998/Jan 1999)
Thanks to F150 online, I decided to buy a Ford F-150 Truck.
What is the latest on this ?
Posting was a long time ago, what happened since then?
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 1999
Posts: 123
Likes: 0
From: Western PA
Steve,
I cannot say anything different that hasn't been said already. Thanks for deciding to keep the site going.
I don't think anything put out by Ford Co. is going to ever rival this. Unless they offer 50% discounts on their MSRP to visitors....don't see that happening.
Just wanted to say thanks. Great community you have going here.
I cannot say anything different that hasn't been said already. Thanks for deciding to keep the site going.
I don't think anything put out by Ford Co. is going to ever rival this. Unless they offer 50% discounts on their MSRP to visitors....don't see that happening.
Just wanted to say thanks. Great community you have going here.
Senior Member
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 212
Likes: 0
From: the great stinkin' desert national monument and nuclear waste dump
keep the site the way it is. Dont turn it into a club. I have been involved in sports car clubs before, I have seen them turn into a ego spotlight for the club "president".
This site is a corallary for a movement I am involved with. I use the linux operating system a bit on my computers. The key with linux, and why you hear so much about it, is the software development model--"open source". Everything is out in the open--not proprietary--no secrets. On top of that, eveyone has an opportunity to contribute and participate in an open discussion of ideas and solutions to problems. No corporation or corporate interest owns linux but they are free to use linux and to take advantage of of it and to even sell it for a profit. But if they choose to do so, they must make it "open" to everyone else to examine and contribute to it.
I think what we are seeing here is Ford is sorta like Microsoft--and I have nothing against Microsoft personally--but they view linux as a threat to them, even though they can use is as a benefit.
This site is like "open source"--every one is free to contribute, and all contributions are open for anyone to use--be it me, you, Ford Engineering or Marketing, General Motors, Chrysler, Toyota, whoever. Keeping it independent is far better than being an arm of Ford Motor. If Ford doesnt want to contribute directly, thats fine with me. The contribution, if you will, is in producing some of the finest cars and trucks in the world today.
I dont think ford will move to shut down the site. The open exchange of information benefits them in identifying and solving problems, a cheap way of finding out what their customers want, and fosters interest in their products which equals more sales. it is in their stockholders interest not to interfere with the site.
my 2cents.
Geez, its past midnite in the great stinkin' desert, gotta get some shuteye--
--karl
This site is a corallary for a movement I am involved with. I use the linux operating system a bit on my computers. The key with linux, and why you hear so much about it, is the software development model--"open source". Everything is out in the open--not proprietary--no secrets. On top of that, eveyone has an opportunity to contribute and participate in an open discussion of ideas and solutions to problems. No corporation or corporate interest owns linux but they are free to use linux and to take advantage of of it and to even sell it for a profit. But if they choose to do so, they must make it "open" to everyone else to examine and contribute to it.
I think what we are seeing here is Ford is sorta like Microsoft--and I have nothing against Microsoft personally--but they view linux as a threat to them, even though they can use is as a benefit.
This site is like "open source"--every one is free to contribute, and all contributions are open for anyone to use--be it me, you, Ford Engineering or Marketing, General Motors, Chrysler, Toyota, whoever. Keeping it independent is far better than being an arm of Ford Motor. If Ford doesnt want to contribute directly, thats fine with me. The contribution, if you will, is in producing some of the finest cars and trucks in the world today.
I dont think ford will move to shut down the site. The open exchange of information benefits them in identifying and solving problems, a cheap way of finding out what their customers want, and fosters interest in their products which equals more sales. it is in their stockholders interest not to interfere with the site.
my 2cents.
Geez, its past midnite in the great stinkin' desert, gotta get some shuteye--
--karl
Banned
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 305
Likes: 0
From: Collierville,TN,Confederate States of America |><|
Steve, I have yet to see a Ford employee treat me as a human. I am a bank to them and they are trying to get in my doors any way they can. If you sell the site or shut it down or get Ford involved in it some changes will happen. As it is now we can complain about our trucks or give praise for the great work that ford has done. But if Ford gets the site or has anyhting to do with it then all dissapointing stories about service and all truck problems will be frowned upon. This is the one place where we, the real ford enthusiasts, can voice or concerns and opinions no matter how we feel. We kiss nobodys *** to stay and we dant get haggled to buy stuff. If Ford motor company had any say so on this site all the banners would be acessories for our trucks (overpriced) and the vendors would probably not be allowed and talking about how good acessories are that are not ford acessories would probably be frowned upon too. i guess you could say that if we didnt have you the web site would best be described as a dictatorship or communist. we might as well live in Iraq.
Hail Saadam!
j/k
------------------
'97 F-150 XLT Clearcoat Red
4x2
17 inch Wheels
Stepside, K&N, bedliner
32inch tires,flowmaster,
tint, matching ford sticker
5spd fully loaded, hidden hitch
new spark plugs
Hail Saadam!
j/k
------------------
'97 F-150 XLT Clearcoat Red
4x2
17 inch Wheels
Stepside, K&N, bedliner
32inch tires,flowmaster,
tint, matching ford sticker
5spd fully loaded, hidden hitch
new spark plugs
Member
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 83
Likes: 0
From: Mukilteo, WA
BEST GIG IN TOWN
THERE HAVE BEEN SO MANY POSTS IN FAVOR OF THIS SITE I CAN ONLY SAY
" THIS IS THE BEST SITE FOR FORD TRUCKS ON THE WORLD WIDE WEB EVER, BAR NONE!!!!!!!!"
THE NEXT BEST SITE IS FORD-DIESEL.COM
D
" THIS IS THE BEST SITE FOR FORD TRUCKS ON THE WORLD WIDE WEB EVER, BAR NONE!!!!!!!!"
THE NEXT BEST SITE IS FORD-DIESEL.COM
D
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 4,867
Likes: 0
From: NH
Steve,
I am with the rest of these people here. Basically speaking the MAIN reason I come to this site so often is to find useful information, or to learn more about my truck that I can not learn from Ford or any other site. Here at your site I don't have to worry that someone is telling me to buy a certain brand only so they can make a profit from it. Here when someone suggest a brand, say Air Force 1, etc I know it's because they have actually used it and like it, no outside marketing or BS, real world feedback.
I would say like I believe some have said I would be more then willing to pay a monthly or yearly fee to access this site to lessen your burden, and/or to help with any improvments you may wish to make. Now you don't know me but when it comes to paying money, especially for access to someones web site I just don't do it, not yet haven't seen any worth 10 cents, but this one your damn stright I would pay. That's how good this site is to me, and just how usful it is to me. Please keep it up and running, without Ford. I don't need Ford except for warranty repairs, but I sure would NOT go to a web site sposered by Ford looking for truthful information and damn well would not pay a dime to access it.
I like Ford don't get me wrong, I buy their trucks, but I do not trust Ford to be completely honest with me either, I trust all these fine people here and F150online.com for truth, plus guys like Intel486 make it easy for guys like me to keep my truck looking AWESOME.
I am with the rest of these people here. Basically speaking the MAIN reason I come to this site so often is to find useful information, or to learn more about my truck that I can not learn from Ford or any other site. Here at your site I don't have to worry that someone is telling me to buy a certain brand only so they can make a profit from it. Here when someone suggest a brand, say Air Force 1, etc I know it's because they have actually used it and like it, no outside marketing or BS, real world feedback.
I would say like I believe some have said I would be more then willing to pay a monthly or yearly fee to access this site to lessen your burden, and/or to help with any improvments you may wish to make. Now you don't know me but when it comes to paying money, especially for access to someones web site I just don't do it, not yet haven't seen any worth 10 cents, but this one your damn stright I would pay. That's how good this site is to me, and just how usful it is to me. Please keep it up and running, without Ford. I don't need Ford except for warranty repairs, but I sure would NOT go to a web site sposered by Ford looking for truthful information and damn well would not pay a dime to access it.
I like Ford don't get me wrong, I buy their trucks, but I do not trust Ford to be completely honest with me either, I trust all these fine people here and F150online.com for truth, plus guys like Intel486 make it easy for guys like me to keep my truck looking AWESOME.
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 1,005
Likes: 0
From: Fairfax, VA
Oldest thread I've seen. . .
Just cruising around the site this morning and I find this thread. What a bunch of sorry a$$, foot stomping, ***** for brains idiots that FoMoCo has working for it. I read dozens of posts concerning the end/postponement of the Lightning that disturbed me, and now this. Well, not really NOW, but you get my drift. Why the hell would a company want to interfere with a site that places its best selling vehicle upon a pedestal??? Unbelievable! I guess it's that same mode of thinking that lets its dealers choose whether or not to offer their customers dealer options or not. Doesn't make a bit of sense, but then again, I'm not a business or finance major. But then again, Ford isn't a financial institution, it's an automobile/truck manufacturer! From what I'm hearing from my friends (Ford employees), Ford's upper end has it's head stuck so far up it's ***, a nuclear blast couldn't make them see light. A pity really. The potential is so large, but the mindset is so very,very small. Maybe Ford will have to suffer like Chrysler did before they fire the wallet-stuffers, and hire/re-hire the guys who know how to make and sell cars and trucks. Look around Ford, Dodge has come back in big way. Don't make 2006 another 1974.
SL
SL
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 293
Likes: 0
From: Friendswood, Texas
Steve...
I believe the members have spoken. This is the first thread in my recollection that keeps getting bigger as I try to read it.
I'm really glad you're going to keep the site up. For all the reasons mentioned, your (our) site provides an invaluable service to the members. If Ford happens to get some ideas to improve things, it's probably a good thing for all of us.
Thanks again for a great job.
Dave (petersde)
